About the Center
The Center for Nano-Biophotonic Engineering, housed within the department, is a pioneering research hub dedicated to advancing optical and photonic technologies for clinical applications. Established with a grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) to Dr. Thomas Milner, center director and professor of surgery, the center’s mission is to translate nano-biophotonic innovations into practical tools for cancer diagnostics and therapy.
The Center focuses on developing cutting-edge devices and techniques that improve disease detection and treatment. Research efforts include intravascular imaging, optoacoustic technologies, and biophotonic sensors designed to analyze human tissue and biological fluids with unprecedented accuracy and precision. These innovations aim to enhance surgical guidance, enable real-time diagnostics, and reduce healthcare disparities through advanced imaging solutions.
The Center fosters collaboration across disciplines, bringing together clinicians, engineers, and scientists from Baylor and the Texas Medical Center. By integrating engineering principles with medical science, it serves as a catalyst for breakthroughs in laser surgery, optical coherence tomography, and nano-scale imaging systems. Research not only drives scientific discovery but also accelerates the commercialization of life-saving technologies.
Lab Members
Projects
SERS Biosensor for Cancer Detection (CPRIT)
The center is developing a novel biosensor that utilizes the principle of Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) for the detection of Multiple Myeloma (MM) and other cancers. Raman spectroscopy is based on the inelastic scattering of light by molecules, and this technique produces discrete spectral signals indicative of specific molecular vibrational energy levels. SERS amplifies the Raman light signal with the use of metallic nanostructures. A SERS biosensor can overcome the limitations of standard MM diagnostic techniques and provide fast, label-free, and specific molecular analysis of a sample or directly at a measurement site.
VIS-SWIR Spatial-Frequency Domain Imaging (SFDI) for Cancer Detection (CPRIT)
Objective is to develop and demonstrate the feasibility of a novel spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) system for tumor detection in cutaneous and hepatocellular carcinomas. SFDI uses patterned illumination and is based on diffuse optical spectroscopy. SFDI is ideally suited for this aim because it provides in vivo quantitative large-field (30 x 40 cm2) high-fidelity spatially resolved maps of tissue optical absorption and scattering to detect malignant tissues that are imperceptible to conventional imaging modalities. The rationale for developing a novel SFDI that illuminates in both the visible (VIS) and short wave-infrared (SWIR) spectral regions is that this device can image deep into issue and can serve as an accessible clinical or home-use device that provides rapid and high-fidelity detection of cutaneous and hepatocellular cancers, allowing earlier detection of recurring cutaneous cancers and accurate intraoperative detection of liver cancer. Deployment of SFDI - a highly accessible imaging technology - will advance the detection, prevention, and treatment planning of some of the most prevalent and high-risk human cancers.
Intravascular Laser Lithotripsy
The Center is developing laser-based catheter devices for the targeted fracture of calcium deposits, intravascular lithotripsy (IVL), in arteries and the heart. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is complicated by coronary artery calcifications by impairing balloon expansion and reducing vessel compliance, which in-turn reduces stent expansion, potentially leading to further complications such as thrombosis and restenosis. Mechanical atherectomy devices cannot reach calcium in the vessel wall, and electrical based IVL devices are limited to coronary arteries due to catheter diameter and less compliant balloons. Pulsed high energy laser radiation can be delivered through small diameter optical fibers, reducing catheter and balloon profiles, overcoming current limitations.
Chronic Total Occlusions
The center is developing an image-guided catheter that can cross chronic total occlusions or CTOs in human coronary arteries. Chronic total occlusions (CTOs) are lesions comprised of hard fibro-calcific material that completely stops blood flow in a coronary artery and are traditionally treated with either medical therapy or bypass surgery. Percutaneous Coronary Interventional (PCI) procedures can be performed, but are technically difficult, and often pass the CTO by traversing inside the vessel wall, leading to higher complication rates. We are developing and testing an image-guided laser-wire device which can provide any interventional cardiologist with a simplified single-operator approach to stay true-lumen while traversing a coronary CTO and reducing rate of patient complications.
Equiptment
Nanoscribe Quantum X Shape
The Quantum X Shape is a high-precision 3D printing system using two-photon polymerization to create detailed micro- and nanoscale structures with submicron accuracy, enabling rapid prototyping and complex 2.5D/3D fabrication.
- Two-Photon Grayscale Lithography (2GL®): Rapid, precise surface patterning
- Up to 60× faster than classic 2PP without quality loss
- Aligned 3D printing (A2PL®): Precise placement on fiber cores, chips, edges, and fiducials
- Automated dispenser: Batch processing and wafer-level microfabrication
Specialized printing sets:
- Fiber Printing: Automatic fiber-core alignment
- Chip Printing: Confocal 3D mapping of complex substrates
- Bioprinting: CO₂, temperature, and humidity control
The system accelerates research in micromechanics, MEMS, materials engineering, micro-optics, and life sciences with fast, accurate, and repeatable fabrication.
Thorlabs Vytran GPX4000LZ Glass Processing Workstation
The GPX4000LZ is an advanced workstation for shaping and joining optical fibers, enabling low-loss splicing, fiber tapering, and the fabrication of complex end-cap terminations up to 5 mm. It offers two interchangeable heating modes—a clean, consumable-free 40 W CO₂ laser and a versatile filament furnace—providing flexibility for a wide range of fiber-processing needs.
- Automated XY and rotational alignment
- Side-view and end-view imaging for precise process control
- Support for single-mode, multimode, PM, and specialty optical fibers
- Compatibility with existing filament-based processing methodsCustomizable fiber-holder inserts and workstation options
With its integrated hardware, imaging systems, and process-development software, the GPX4000LZ provides a robust, high-precision platform for advanced optical fiber fabrication and research.
Optical Coherence Tomography (1310 nm, Swept Source)
A custom built Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography (SS-OCT) system that provides high-resolution, 3D subsurface imaging, and functional vascular mapping (angiography).
- Operates at a 1310 nm wavelength, optimized for penetration depths of up to 3 mm in highly scattering biological tissues and materials
- Enables label-free angiography, providing non-invasive visualization of microvasculature and relative blood flow without the use of contrast agents
- Supports high-speed 3D imaging, allowing rapid volumetric scans that reduce motion artifacts while capturing complex structures
- Features a portable and flexible design, using a mobile cart platform with customizable scanning parameters to accommodate diverse experimental needs
Applications: Tissue imaging, microvascular research, non-destructive material imaging, and real-time cross-sectional monitoring.
Raman Spectrometer
The Wasatch Photonics WP-785-XL is a high-sensitivity, modular Raman spectrometer from the WP Raman XL series, optimized for ultra-cooled scientific cameras such as the Andor iDus 416.
- f/1.5 input
- Spectral Range (Standard, SR): 150–2000 cm⁻¹
- Resolution: 5 cm⁻¹ (standard slit, iDus 416)
- Dimensions & Weight: 18.3 × 20.0 × 10.7 cm; 3.4 kg
- Input: Fiber-coupled (SMA)
The WP785XL offers high signal throughput and seamless integration with custom Raman probes, lasers, and sampling optics.
Near Infrared Spectrometer (NIR)
The Wasatch Photonics NIR spectrometer (WP-NIR1) is a high-efficiency optical spectrometer designed for high-performance light detection and fast measurements.
- Near-infrared spectral range (900–1700 nm)
- f/1.3 input for maximum light capture
- High-transmission, transmissive VPH grating and diffraction-limited optics
- Fast data sampling with TEC cooling for optimal SNR
- Fiber-coupled and free-space models
- Compact, robust, configurable design with excellent thermal stability
Delivers maximum sensitivity, superior signal-to-noise, and precise, reliable measurements in any application.
Visible/Near Infrared Spectrometer
The Wasatch Photonics WP-VISNIR f/2 high-throughput spectrometer is a compact, research-grade instrument designed for accurate and efficient visible to near-infrared spectral measurements.
- Covers the VIS–NIR spectral range (350–1000 nm)
- f/2 high-throughput optical design for improved signal collection and sensitivity
- Thermo-electrically regulated detector (TEC, +10 °C) to enhance measurement stability and repeatability
- Integrated fiber coupling with a 25 µm slit
This spectrometer provides a stable and high-performance solution for researchers requiring reliable VIS–NIR spectral data.
Modulim Clarifi SFDI
The Clarifi system is a cutting-edge imaging platform that makes microvascular assessment fast, simple, and noninvasive.
- Spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) with patterned illumination
- Large field-of-view, quantitative, spatially resolved maps of tissue absorption and scattering
- Non-contact, noninvasive, measuring oxygenation and perfusion in seconds
- Five hemoglobin-based biomarkers for microvascular insights
- Supports early detection, patient management, and personalized treatment
Clarifi provides clinicians and researchers with precise, actionable data to support better patient care and scientific insight.
Clarius Ultrasound
The Clarius L20 HD3 is a wireless, ultra–high-frequency handheld ultrasound probe designed for superficial imaging up to 4 cm.
High-resolution imaging:
- Delivers up to 20 MHz ultrasound using 192 piezoelectric elements and 8 beamformers for cart-level image quality
- Wireless & Portable
- Automated workflows and presets